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DUS → MAD
Which side of the plane to sit from Düsseldorf Airport (Duesseldorf) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (Madrid)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side provides a more dramatic perspective of the central Pyrenees peaks and usually offers a superior view of the Madrid skyline and the Sierra de Guadarrama during the final approach.
Eifel Mountains
Just after takeoff, view the rolling volcanic landscapes and lush forests of the Eifel region near the Belgian border.
Massif Central
As you cruise through France, the left side looks toward the rugged ancient volcanic plateaus of south-central France.
Central Pyrenees
A stunning crossing of the highest peaks of the border range, often featuring snow-capped summits even in late spring.
Sierra de Guadarrama
The granite peaks north of Madrid appear during descent, marking the transition from the high mountains to the Spanish plateau.
Madrid Cityscape
On standard northern approaches to MAD, the left side offers views of the Cuatro Torres Business Area and the city center.
Book a seat in front of or well behind the wing to ensure your view of the Pyrenees is not blocked. For the best lighting on the mountain ranges, opt for a morning flight. During descent, keep your camera ready for the 'Cuatro Torres' skyscrapers which are distinct landmarks of the Madrid skyline.
Bay of Biscay
Depending on the specific airway, you can often see the Atlantic coastline where the mountains meet the sea near San Sebastian.
Loire Valley
Look down over central France to spot the winding Loire River and the agricultural heartland often referred to as the Garden of France.
The Spanish Meseta
View the vast, golden-hued plains of Castile-León, characterized by unique geometric farming patterns and red earth.
Lower Rhine
Immediately after departure from DUS, catch views of the Rhine river snaking through the industrial and urban landscapes.
The right side is ideal for evening flights to witness the sunset over the Atlantic or the French countryside. If the flight path takes a more westerly route, you will have a better view of the coastal transition into Spain. Polarized sunglasses are recommended to reduce glare from the sun when flying south in the afternoon.
Distance: 1,441 km (895 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 55 min
Departure: DUS (51.289501, 6.766780000000001)
Arrival: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)
Route Type: International
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